Is Fences Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Fences is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 139 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Fences Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2016, Fences emerges as a significant entry in the Drama domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of In 1950s Pittsburgh, a frustrated African-American father struggles with the constraints of poverty, racism, and his own inner demons as he tries to raise a family. Unlike standard genre fare, Fences attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Fences features a noteworthy lineup led by Denzel Washington . Supported by the likes of Viola Davis and Stephen McKinley Henderson , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Fences (2016) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.9/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Fences Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Fences is a Drama film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through nuanced character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. In 1950s Pittsburgh, a frustrated African-American father struggles with the constraints of poverty, racism, and his own inner demons as he tries to raise a family. The screenplay takes time to develop its characters, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. The arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's themes.
Fences Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Fences concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Fences reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Fences?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Fences Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $24.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $64.4M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Fences Budget
The estimated production budget for Fences is $24.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Fences
- Denzel Washington – Troy Maxson
- Viola Davis – Rose Maxson
- Stephen McKinley Henderson – Jim Bono
- Jovan Adepo – Cory Maxson
- Russell Hornsby – Lyons Maxson
Top Highlights
Denzel WashingtonTroy Maxson
Viola DavisRose Maxson
Stephen McKinley HendersonJim Bono
Jovan AdepoCory Maxson
Russell HornsbyLyons Maxson
Mykelti WilliamsonGabriel Maxson
Saniyya SidneyRaynell Maxson
Lesley BooneEvangelist Preacher
Christopher MeleDeputy Commissioner
Jason SilvisGarbage Truck Driver
Where to Watch Fences Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVParents Guide & Age Rating
Fences is rated PG-13. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.9/10, and global collection metrics, Fences stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2016 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fences movie hit or flop?
Fences has received mixed reviews with a 6.9/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Fences worth watching?
Fences is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Fences online?
Fences may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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Critic Reviews for Fences
**Trying to be a good husband and father!** It took nearly a decade for Denzel to direct another film and this time it sailed through the Oscars with four nominations and one won out of it. Yeah, it was Viola Davis, who snatched the most prestigious award for her supporting actress role. Originally the film based on the stage play of the same name. It is a drama takes place in the 50s about a hard working family man, Troy. His past was not very good, which makes him a little arrogant when it comes to raining his boy. Marrying Rose was the best ever thing happened in his life. Though it was not a perfect family. The differences between them is what later bring twist and turns in the tale before heading for the final of the final act. A very simple drama on the fine topic. Most of the film was just a conversation or arguments. And most of the film was little slow moving with the very long overall runtime. If you can manage that, you can enjoy it. If you are a drama genre fan, then you will be more than happy for giving it a try. One of the best drama films of the year, yet not the greatest. It's all finger points at the performances. Those magnificent actors displayed magnificent show. Nearly 35 years old screenplay and 70 years old timeline, still looked the same and powerful. Despite the film's success and poured praises, I don't think it is for everyone. Definitely young generations won't enjoy it. It is mainly for families. _6/10_
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
